Overview
A skin biopsy is a procedure to remove cells from the surface of your body so that they can be tested in a lab. A skin biopsy is used most often to diagnose skin conditions.
Skin biopsy procedures include:
- Shave biopsy. A tool like a razor is used to scrape the surface of your skin. It gathers a cell sample from the top layers of the skin. These layers are called the epidermis and the dermis. Stitches usually aren’t needed after this procedure.
- Punch biopsy. A round-tipped cutting tool is used to remove a small core of skin, including deeper layers. The sample might include tissue from layers called the epidermis, the dermis and the top layer of fat under the skin. You may need stitches to close the wound.
- Excisional biopsy. A scalpel is used to remove an entire lump or an area of irregular skin. The sample of removed tissue might include a border of healthy skin and your skin’s deeper layers. You may need stitches to close the wound.
The type of skin biopsy you have will depends on your symptoms and how much skin is affected.
Why it’s done
A skin biopsy is used to diagnose or help treat skin conditions and diseases, including:
- Actinic keratosis.
- Blistering skin disorders.
- Skin cancer.
- Skin tags.
- Irregular moles or other growths.
